US Virgin Islands, once the hideaway of buccaneers and brigands, they now attract a more salubrious yachting crew drawn by steady trade winds, well-protected anchorages and a year-round balmy climate. Tourist development has been limited by an enlightened environmental policy.

Best time to visit

December to May, but there's dreamy weather year-round.

Essential experiences

Hiking between beaches and great snorkelling sites in the Virgin islands National Park; mountain biking around Water Island or exploring the days when 'King Cane' ruled and sugar; retreating to the mountains and beach of Jost Van Dyke; getting historical with the largest concentration of colonial buildings in Charlotte Amalie; chartering a yacht to Anegada - the 'Mysterious Virgin' with a tranquil coral beachfront.

In a few words, the Virgin Islands are

Unspoilt beaches, crystal clear waters, reggae rhythms, swimming in rum, yachties enjoying an on-deck G&T and flamingos aplenty.

Did you know?

The Virgins aren't owned by Richard Branson - they are both an unincorporated territory of the USA and Crown Colony of the United Kingdom.